Minister for Gozo Justyne Caruana was invited to a conference by the Malta Tourism Authority, and held on the island of Capri, with a view to promoting Gozo as a unique and quality destination.

Minister Caruana gave details of the ongoing work by the Ministry to attract more quality tourists to Gozo, having now, she said, resolved the challenge of seasonality.

Dr Caruana explained that this challenge was not eradicated just by chance, but though a “clear and robust plan” which included among others, investment in infrastructure by the Ministry, connectivity and an all-year-round cultural calendar of quality events.

The Minister mentioned that the islands of Capri and Gozo have many similar characteristics, such as the fact that connectivity to the mainland is key to them both, and another one being the problems posed by mass tourism.

She said that a revised vision is being implemented with regard to the concept of EcoGozo. Dr Caruana explained that there is a move towards serious planning for sustainable development to complement this vision, so that Gozo conserves its natural landscape and distinct destination to Malta.

The Minister mentioned capital projects related to the concept of EcoGozo, saying that key among them is valley rehabilitation, the decarbonistation-strategy, which, she said will be implemented through the first Park & Ride project and the introduction of electric buses.

Mayor of Capri, Marino Lembo said he felt “honoured by the presence of the Minister for Gozo in Capri.” He claimed that Capri, like Gozo, is highly dependent on the tourism sector and therefore this sector must be protected and sustained.

Mayor Lembo went on to say that he wished, that through the conference further collaboration could be initiated between the two Mediterranean islands.

The Gozo Minister in another  meeting, spoke with the Mayor of Naples Luigi de Magistris, who also stressed the importance of collaboration between the two locations to move towards sustainable and qualitative tourism.

During this visit, Minister Caruana had the opportunity to promote Gozo through various meetings with the executive officers of the Museo di Capodimonte, various entities engaged in tourism, as well as several operators.

Permalink: Gozo and Capri promoted as quality eco-sustainable destinations